As the East Yorkshire Coast gears up for the summer season, a new poll shows overwhelming public support for smoke free beaches in Yorkshire and the Humber. A YouGov survey commissioned by Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) shows that 61 per cent of residents support banning smoking on beaches.
The survey, which included 1,125 adults from the region, also found that two-thirds (67 per cent) back the proposed ‘Smokefree Generation’ policy—central to the new Tobacco and Vapes Bill—which would prohibit the sale of tobacco to anyone born after 2009.
Support for smokefree environments across Yorkshire and the Humber remains strong and consistently above national averages, according to the data:
- 93 per cent support bans in school grounds and playgrounds
- 81 per cent in hospital grounds
- 78 per cent in public transport waiting areas
- 60 per cent in outdoor areas of pubs, cafés, and restaurants
- 56 per cent in parks
- 69 per cent in university or college grounds
East Riding resident Nigel Rowe said: “I think having more smokefree places is a good idea—especially beaches and parks. There are always children playing and families enjoying the outdoors, and it just feels right to keep those spaces clean and healthy. Cigarette butts not only messy, but they’re also harmful to animals and the environment. I think most people who smoke would understand the importance of protecting these spaces for the greater good”
The poll also showed:
- 64 per cent of people in the Yorkshire and Humber region want to live in a country where no one smokes.
- 45 per cent believe the Government isn’t doing enough to tackle smoking.
- 86 per cent support tobacco retail licensing.
- 76 per cent back a Big Tobacco levy to fund quitting services and youth prevention.
Scott Crosby, Associate Director for the Humber and North Yorkshire Centre for Excellence in Tobacco Control, said: “We need bold, continued action to prevent uptake, help smokers quit, and reduce harm. The survey clearly shows the public is not only on board—they’re eager for more action to make it happen. What I find most striking is the public’s desire to hold Big Tobacco accountable.
“With the industry profiting an estimated £900 million annually at the expense of our health, it’s only right they contribute to fixing the harm they’ve caused. A £700 million annual levy, tapering as smoking declines, could fund vital public health initiatives, reduce health inequalities, and ease the burden on taxpayers.”